Hey everyone! I’m loving my Prius Prime, but the trunk space is definitely a bit unique because of the battery placement. Since I spend most of my time in EV mode for errands, I’m finding that my groceries and charging cables just slide all over that shallow cargo area every time I take a turn. I need something low-profile that won't block my rear view but is sturdy enough to hold loose gear. I've looked at some generic bins, but they seem too tall for the hatch cover. Does anyone have a specific brand or model that fits perfectly in the Prime's dimensions? What are you all using to keep things secure without sacrificing what little space we have?
In my experience, that shallow hatch space is literally the biggest trade-off for the EV range. I've spent way too much time measuring that battery hump over the years just to find gear that actually stays put... it’s basically like Toyota gave us a trunk meant for pizza boxes and nothing else lol.
Before I recommend the specific low-profile setup I’ve been using, I wanna ask a couple of things to see what’ll work best for ur situation:
1. Are you looking for a full-width collapsible bin that covers the whole floor, or just something small like a corner stay?
2. Do you usually keep your charging cable in that tiny side cubby, or are you trying to fit it into the main organizer area?
Honestly, getting the height right is the hardest part cuz of how low the cargo cover sits. Let me know and I can give you the specs on what I use! 👍
Check out the Toyota Prius enthusiasts' forums or the PriusChat technical wiki—those guys have literally mapped out every inch of that trunk hump. In my experience, the trick isnt finding a massive box, but looking for stuff marketed as 'under-seat' storage or slim cargo nets. Honestly, I've tried many different setups over the years, and the one I got recently is basically a collapsible mesh system that stays super low-profile. It doesnt block the rearview at all, which is huge cuz the Prime's visibility is already kinda wierd. I found that using a grippy silicone mat underneath my current setup was a total game changer too. It keeps everything from sliding during those sharp EV turns. Definitely look for things with 'low-profile' in the specs... anyway, hope that helps you keep the groceries from flying around! gl
Respectfully, I'd consider another option instead of those pricey custom nets. Honestly, I've tried many specialized bins and they're usually a rip-off. In my experience, you're better off going low-budget with a Starplast Low Profile Underbed Plastic Storage Box 30L. It's basically the perfect height for that shallow battery hump and costs like $10-15. Just slap some adhesive velcro on the bottom so it stays put. Seriously, save ur money for the charging bill! lol
Ok so, for your situation, I gotta mention the safety aspect that most people overlook when loading up that shallow cargo area. Since the Prime has that higher floor, any loose gear literally becomes a projectile if you ever have to slam on the brakes or take a sharp turn to avoid something. Honestly, I'm a bit of a stickler for weight distribution and securing loads because if stuff slides around, it messes with the car's balance and can actually distract you while you're driving in EV mode.
I've spent a ton of time measuring the clearance from the battery hump to the tonneau cover, and the best thing I've found is the Rola 59001 M.O.V.E. Rigid Base Interior Organizer. What makes this one work is that it's got a non-slip bottom that actually grips the Prius carpet properly, and it's low-profile enough that it doesn't push up against the hatch glass. Plus, it has these movable dividers so you can lock your charging cables into one small section so they aren't banging against your groceries.
Another solid option if you want something even more secure is the Fortem Car Trunk Organizer with Straps. The straps are the key here—you can anchor them to the factory tie-down points in the Prime's trunk so the whole bin is physically bolted down (well, strapped down). It keeps the center of gravity low and ensures nothing flies forward. I think it's probably the safest way to go without sacrificing the visibility out that tiny rear window. Anyway, just make sure whatever you get has a rubberized base cuz that plastic-on-plastic sliding is the worst. Good luck! 👍
Check out the Toyota Prius enthusiasts' forums or the PriusChat technical wiki—those guys have literally mapped out every inch of that trunk hump. In my experience, the trick isnt finding a massive box, but looking for stuff marketed as 'under-seat' storage or slim cargo nets. Honestly, I've tried many different setups over the years, and the one I got recently is basically a collapsible mesh system that stays super low-profile. It doesnt block the rearview at all, which is huge cuz the Prime's visibility is already kinda wierd. I found that using a grippy silicone mat underneath my current setup was a total game changer too. It keeps everything from sliding during those sharp EV turns. Definitely look for things with 'low-profile' in the specs... anyway, hope that helps you keep the groceries from flying around! gl